The Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) is a nonprofit that supports entrepreneurs—especially women—through training, advising, and access to capital to start, grow, and scale businesses.
Illinois
LinkedIn for Nonprofits Resource Hub is a free collection of guides, best practices, and expert advice from LinkedIn to help nonprofit organizations grow their presence on LinkedIn — including tips on hiring, content, networking, fundraising, and building your nonprofit’s brand and impact on the platform.
National
It’s the Ashoka Changemaker Index™ (CMI) — a free digital tool from Ashoka that lets individuals, schools, teams, and organizations assess and develop their changemaking skills, access learning resources, and track progress toward positive social and environmental impact.
National
The O’Shaughnessy Fellowships & Grants award $100,000 to researchers, builders, and creatives to turn bold ideas into reality—100% ownership, no equity, committees, or thesis. One-year program.
Apply by April 30, 2026.
National
FoodLab Chicago 7.0 is a free program for Black and Brown food entrepreneurs in Chicago (12–18+ months in business). It offers weekly training in finance, marketing, and operations. Limited seats—apply early.
Apply by April 17, 2026
Chicago
Right to Be’s upcoming free trainings offer skills in conflict de-escalation, bystander intervention, and building safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for workplaces and communities.
National
Growth Corp is a nonprofit SBA 504 lender that helps small businesses access long-term fixed-rate financing for commercial real estate and equipment to support growth and job creation.
National
Pursuit Lending Resources offers guides, tools, and insights to help small business owners understand financing options and strengthen their capital readiness.
Illinois
A searchable directory to find your local chamber of commerce by state, city, or territory, helping businesses connect with their nearest chamber.
National
CO— by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers small business owners actionable advice, expert content, tools, and resources to help start, run, and grow successful companies.
National
Venturize workplace benefits help small businesses offer competitive perks like healthcare guidance, retirement support, and employee well-being resources to boost retention and workplace satisfaction.
National
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready helped Dallas bookkeeper Misa Bacon grow her business by 50% using free online courses, SEO improvements, email marketing, and networking, boosting leads and revenue through practical digital skills. Read More Here.
Sunrock Ceramics used a Somercor/SBA 504 loan to expand its operations, upgrade its facility, and strengthen its position as a local ceramics manufacturer. Read More Here.
A clear, organized checklist helps nonprofits stay on track and reduce stress leading up to an event. This list can be adapted for first-time events, annual gatherings, and large-scale galas. This checklist is designed to bring clarity, confidence, and consistency to nonprofit event planning. By breaking the process into manageable…
Nonprofit events—whether intimate community programs or major fundraising galas—are powerful tools for deepening engagement, raising resources, and advancing mission-driven work. The following best practices support organizations at every stage, from planning your first event to elevating a large annual gala. Core Best Practices for All Nonprofit Events Successful nonprofit events…
Somercor provides loans, grants, and advisory support to help small businesses and nonprofits grow, create jobs, and strengthen communities across Illinois and the Midwest.
Illinois
Partnering with board members to build relationships with our prospects leads to larger gifts from more loyal major donors.
If you’re a WBENC-certified business, you have access to an incredible variety of workshops and training programs designed to help you grow, scale, and thrive. From financial education and leadership development to marketing strategies and procurement readiness, these sessions provide actionable insights and connections that can make a real difference…
Jasper Photography LLC owner Sam Wilson relaunched her luxury-photography business with support from Allies for Community Business, SCORE, IL SBDC and WBDC — using funding and resources to upgrade equipment, expand services, and strengthen her impact as a Black woman entrepreneur in Chicago. Check Out the Story Here…
Pretty Pokets leveraged free mentoring from SCORE to launch and grow its vegan-bag business — including a successful Kiva micro-loan round. Today the brand serves customers nationwide with stylish, practical bags. Read More Here…
This “On Board” Debate explores whether nonprofits should appoint a Chief Governance Officer. It outlines when a CGO can strengthen oversight in complex organizations and when shared board responsibility may be more effective. Read More Here…
Fidelity outlines three key reasons small businesses should offer a retirement benefit—from attracting talent to boosting employee financial wellness and leveraging valuable tax incentives. Learn More Here
From a single mannequin to a million-dollar rental business, one entrepreneur grew her niche company with the help of Verizon Small Business Digital Ready’s free digital tools and AI strategy. Read More Here.
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready helped a nutrition-consultancy founder grow her business via free coaching, peer networking and savvy digital-marketing tips. Read More Here.
Jessica House, founder of Just Dip It Tacos and graduate of Sunshine Enterprises’ Community Business Academy, turns heritage, faith and food into community impact. May Alumni Accolades — Sunshine Enterprises…
Sunshine Enterprises alum Ora Wardlow, founder of Café 322 Urban Bistro, leveraged the Community Business Academy and strategic coaching to elevate her catering brand and create community impact. Read More Here.
Fidelity’s Education Center offers tools, guides, and training that help small businesses and employees understand 401(k)s, boost financial wellness, and confidently manage retirement benefits.
National
Starting a business is thrilling – new ideas, big goals, and the promise of growth. But in the rush to build your product and attract customers, legal details often get overlooked. These oversights can lead to costly disputes, compliance issues, or even put your entire venture at risk. Forbes recently…
Marketing your start-up isn’t a checklist or a quick fix. It’s an invitation to bring your whole self into your work – and to connect with the people who need you most. If you’re ready to market your start-up in a way that feels authentic, soulful, and effective, here’s what I want you to hold close. These are the things I tell myself…
LANE empowers low-income small business owners in Chicago by providing free legal services to help them launch, grow, and protect their businesses.
Chicago, Illinois
AI is reshaping how nonprofits work, and small teams can benefit the most. The Alford Group’s latest guide highlights practical AI tools for fundraisers, from data analytics to content creation and accessibility. Learn how to streamline processes, boost donor engagement, and adopt AI responsibly.
A strong moves management approach transforms fundraising by streamlining development efforts, aligning strategies, and maximizing staff time. It centralizes relationship-building activities to elevate long-term, transformational impact over short-term, transactional giving. Moves management focuses on planning, recording, and reporting key moments in donor relationships to deepen engagement and strengthen philanthropic…
The MySBA Learning Center offers free online courses covering startup fundamentals, business planning, financing, and growth strategies for small business owners.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
Chicago’s Neighborhood Business Development Centers provide free, local support to small business owners, offering guidance, resources, and services to start and grow businesses.
Chicago
On Board by Chicago Booth's Rustandy Center strengthens nonprofit boards through debates, peer learning, and alumni connections to boost governance and strategic impact.
Chicago, Illinois
IGNITE is a free 9-month Chicago Booth program providing nonprofit leaders with coaching, education, peer mentorship, and networking to strengthen strategy and organizational impact.
Chicago, Illinois
The Polsky Exchange is a UChicago startup incubator offering workspace, mentorship, workshops, and business support to community entrepreneurs and students to grow their ventures.
Chicago, Illinois
The Polsky Small Business Growth Program helps Chicago small businesses scale with free consulting, strategy support, and up to $5K in services over a 30-week program.
Chicago, Illinois
Alford Group provides nonprofits with tools, case studies, webinars, and guides to improve fundraising, leadership, and strategy for greater impact and organizational growth.
National
Take the free Alford Group Moves Management Quiz to assess your fundraising readiness across 7 core areas like strategy, structure, systems and skills.
National
Alford Group’s free fundraising resources include blog posts, case studies, toolkits & webinars to help nonprofits strengthen strategy, boost campaigns and engage donors.
National
Join Grow with Google for training and live workshops to boost productivity with AI, connect with customers, and sell online, no matter your stage in the entrepreneurial journey.
National
Provides eligible nonprofits free Google tools like Workspace and Ad Grants to boost efficiency, donor connections, and impact with apps, email, and ad credits.
National
Grow your business online with Google’s free products and AI-powered tools, helping you reach more customers, stand out, and work smarter.
National
Learn to use AI to save time, tackle tasks, brainstorm solutions, and grow your business with tutorials, coaching, and tools designed for busy small business owners.
National
Mona Ventures' Resource Hub offers small business owners guides on SBA loans, term loans, and lines of credit, along with monthly grant roundups to help entrepreneurs access funding opportunities.
National
Forefront's Nonprofit Legal Resources page offers Illinois nonprofits access to free and low-cost legal assistance, including pro bono services, educational materials, and referrals to specialized support.
Chicago, Illinois
The Mission Sustainability Initiative (MSI) at Forefront supports Illinois-based nonprofits in exploring strategic partnerships through confidential consultations, educational resources, and $5,000 grants for partnership readiness.
Illinois
The Women's Mentoring Co-Op pairs early-career women with established leaders across industries, fostering growth through mentorship, networking, and experiential learning in Chicago's innovation ecosystem.
Chicago, Illinois
First Women's Bank provides commercial loans for equipment, inventory, vehicles, and real estate, supporting equitable access to capital and growth.
National
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready offers free online courses, coaching, peer networking, and grants to help small businesses grow and succeed.
National
SBA Marketing guide: grow your business by defining your target market, highlighting your edge, setting sales goals, planning marketing tactics, budgeting, and tracking ROI.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
Stay legally compliant by meeting federal, state, and local requirements: obtain necessary licenses and permits, maintain proper records, and adhere to industry-specific regulations.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
SBA guide: hire and manage employees by setting up payroll, following labor laws, recruiting, onboarding, training, and evaluating performance for a strong workforce.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
Protect your small business with SBA cybersecurity tips: train employees, secure networks, update software, use MFA, back up data, and plan for cyber threats.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
The SBA guides entrepreneurs in writing business plans, offering templates, examples, and resources to structure, run, and grow a business effectively.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
The SBA helps small businesses use AI to boost efficiency, cut costs, and compete effectively, offering guidance on tools, ethics, and practical implementation.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
NCCDC offers personalized one-on-one business coaching to help CEOs assess their current state, set goals, troubleshoot issues, and bridge gaps for growth, saving time and fostering success.
Illinois
The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Chicagoland Chamber offers free one-on-one advising, workshops, and resources to help start or grow your business.
Illinois
The Neighborhood Entrepreneurship Lab connects proven small business owners with advisors, strategists, and partners who provide capital and hands-on support to help them scale and build community wealth.
Located in Chicago, but serving all of Illinois and Indiana
Allies for Community Business offers free one-on-one and group coaching to help entrepreneurs strengthen their business plans, operations, and finances.
Located in Chicago, but serving all of Illinois and Indiana
Board Boot Camp is a comprehensive, interactive, multi-day training for individuals interested in nonprofit board service; inclusive of networking/connection with organizations recruiting for board members.
For more information, visit CFW.org
Chicago
Willie's Warriors is a leadership cohort for Black women and nonbinary leaders from diverse backgrounds, sectors, and industries.
For more information, visit CFW.org
Chicago
Capital is a critical resource ... For more than 30 years, we’ve specialized in flexible lending products and creative real estate solutions that help nonprofits achieve their growth goals and best serve their communities.
For more information, visit IFF.org
National
Greenwood Archer Capital provides $10K–$500K loans to small businesses in historically disinvested communities, offering flexible capital to support growth, stability, and long-term success.
Illinois
TechRise Resources offers guides, templates, and tools to help founders build, launch, and grow tech businesses with practical advice and actionable insights.
Illinois
Venturize is a free, bilingual resource hub by Small Business Majority, offering small business owners tools and education to navigate funding, benefits, and growth strategies.
National
Fiserv’s Small Business, Big Impact initiative invests in small and diverse businesses through grants, consulting and tech solutions to boost preparedness and community resilience.
National
This is a funding opportunity for a current recipient of an SBA SCORE award. In order to be eligible, you must be a current recipient of SBA funding to SCORE. For-profit businesses are not eligible for this award.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
VBOCs assist clients in developing and maintaining a business plan. The business plan includes such elements as the legal form of the business, equipment requirements and cost, organizational structure, a strategic plan, market analysis, and a financial plan.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
The Women's Entrepreneurship Hub offers Illinois women, especially Black and Latina/x, resources, funding tools, and a community to start and grow their businesses.
Illinois
The WBC program was founded to foster the growth of women-owned businesses by providing access to education, training, mentoring, business development and financing opportunities to women throughout the United States and its territories.
National
SBDCs provide problem-solving assistance to help small businesses access capital, develop and exchange new technologies, and improve business planning, strategy, operations, financial management, personnel administration, marketing, export assistance and sales.
For more information, visit SBA.gov
National
Microsoft’s Digital Skills program offers free training—ranging from basic digital literacy to AI, cybersecurity, and cloud skills—to help people and businesses thrive in today’s digital economy.
National
Fidelity’s Advantage 401(k) provides small businesses an affordable, easy-to-manage 401(k) plan with transparent pricing and streamlined setup.
National
Cook County Small Business Source offers free resources, advising, and funding support to help local small businesses start, manage, and grow.
Illinois
Chicago Innovation Fellows is a 6-month program connecting executives to Chicago’s innovation ecosystem through projects, coaching, and experiential learning, blending theory with practical application.
Chicago, Illinois
ChiBizHub provides the resources you need for starting a business, business plans, licensing, tax information, financing and more.
For more information, visit a4cb.org
Chicago, Illinois, Indiana
A Chicago‑based nonprofit that funds and supports organizations working to expand economic security, end violence, improve health access, and advance reproductive justice for women, girls, and gender‑expansive people.
For more information, visit CFW.org
Chicago, IL
Milestone Circles offers free virtual mentoring for Illinois women-owned businesses, connecting them with peers and mentors through a program backed by DCEO, Nasdaq, and Wells Fargo.
For more information, visit NasdaqCenter.org
National
EDLI (Entrepreneurial Development and Leadership Institute) is a Chicago‑based nonprofit that builds an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem by helping Black, Latino, and women business owners grow, prepare for funding, and connect with tailored resources and support.
For more information, visit Edli.org
Chicago, IL
The Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3), formerly known as Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE), advocates for equitable economic opportunities across the state of Illinois for minorities-, women-, veteran-owned businesses, businesses owned by persons with disabilities, eligible not-for-profit corporations, and other underserved communities. Through targeted programs, resources, and outreach and promotional activities, OE3 aims to create an inclusive and strong business ecosystem for communities that have traditionally faced systemic barriers to entry and growth. This investment spurs local economic development in underserved areas resulting in a revitalized and thriving Illinois economy.
For more information, visit dceo.Illinois.gov
statewide in Illinois
Sunshine Enterprises’ Community Business Academy is a 12-week hybrid program offering hands-on training in planning, finance, marketing, and growth strategies to help entrepreneurs start or scale their businesses.
For more information, visit SunshineEnterprises.com
Chicago, IL
